Luscious Lips
Sunday 3rd February 2008 by Elizabeth Richards
Whether you’re addicted to lipstick or you prefer to wear them bare, for a flawless complexion it’s essential that lips stay soft, supple and plump. Dry lips feel bad and look even worse so with the skin here thinner than anywhere else on the body, everyday maintenance is a must.
Environmental stresses – biting winds, rain and low temperatures in the winter, burning sun in the summer – can quickly deplete moisture levels and are given a helping hand by the dehydrating effects of air conditioning and central heating. Throw in a little stress, a common cold and a few late nights and you have a recipe for disaster: redness, chapping and deep sore cracks.
The only solution is to prevent, repair and protect against damage with an intensive balm for regular use throughout the day. Apply frequently (certainly first thing in the morning, last thing at night and before stepping outdoors) to hydrate and soften, guard against ageing and burning UV rays and smooth dry patches. And now it’s Feb, there’s even more of a reason to invest in kissable lips so you’re prepared come Valentine’s Day!
Amanda Lacey Cupids Bow Plumping Lip Balm, £15
There’s no scary tingling with this pretty pink plumping balm which uses shea butter, calendula oil and vitamin E to nourish and repair dry or irritated lips and diminish the appearance of fine lines. It melts in easily with no oily residue and also has a broad spectrum sunscreen. Quite simply perfect!
Available at www.AmandaLacey.com 
Pai Skincare Bergamot Lip Balm, £6
Made with moisturising sweet almond oil, cocoa butter and beeswax, this 100% certified organic balm softens lips and protects against damage from environmental stresses. Infused with aromatic bergamot oil to lift the spirits, it’s an utter pleasure to apply at any time of the day. Perfect for your desk drawer!
Available at www.PaisSincare.com
Crème de la Mer lip balm, £35
This luxury balm is infused with the legendary Miracle Broth to deliver instant moisture and is your best bet for seriously dry, chapped or damaged lips. Ingredients include an arctic protein to help insulate against extreme heat and cold while results are immediate with lips feeling softer and smoother after the initial application. An absolute must-have for any handbag.
Available at www.CremedelaMer.co.uk
Caudalie Lip Conditioner, £6
With a powerful moisturising base made from grape-seed polyphenols and shea butter, this nourishing little stick not only softens, repairs damage and protects but also has anti-oxidant properties plus a broad spectrum SPF5. Use on bare lips, as a lipstick base or even on the delicate skin around the lips to smooth fine lines. Deliciously scented, it works a treat!
Available at www.LookFantastic.com
Eve Lom Kiss Mix, £12.50
With its rich texture and fast absorption (no greasy residue here), this is the perfect balm for everyday use. Used under or over lipstick, it delivers a sexy sheen while zinc oxide – a natural sunscreen – guards against damage from UV rays. Finally, menthol soothes and heals.
Available at www.SpaceNK.co.uk
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